I don’t know if it is all women, but I tend to have a case of the Marthas. I am constantly making lists, checking them off, patting myself on the back and moving on to the next list. It [selfishly] makes me feel accomplished, like I’m “doing my duties.” I allow myself to get lost in the tasks themselves, rather than the purpose of them. I don’t prepare dinner, keep everything neat and tidy and invite people into our home for myself; no, I do all of these things so that my life points to Jesus. I don’t pick up dirty clothes from the floor or take out the trash again to check a box off of my list; I do it so that Jesus’ unconditional love is evident.
My heart longs to be more like Mary. Too often, I skip over my quiet time with Jesus to get a head-start on my checklist. I don’t know why, but it has taken a while for me to see that this can turn my heart ice cold, like Martha’s. I want to be like Mary, dying to hear the words of Jesus and patiently sitting at his feet, knowing the work will get done in due time. I pray that my selfish desires of accomplishment are dulled and a fire is started in my heart to be in the word. Knowing Jesus and hearing Him speak to you is a fulfillment like no other that leads to a happy heart to take on the day and the world.
As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him. She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to what he said. But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, “Lord, don’t you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!” “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” Luke 10:38-42
I have been blessed with a very gracious husband who provides me with “heart checks” when I need them the most. In such a loving way, he brings me back to reality and helps to center my focus. I could let the jealousy and envy burrow into my heart and make me sour, or I could refocus my heart and see all the wonderful things that Jesus has blessed me with. I strive to be content with what the Lord has given me and to build on that in due time. His plan is laid out for me and I need to trust and rest in that. I want to hold strong in that He knows what is best for me, he knows what is best for my marriage. I want my heart to be full of joy and gratitude toward Him, not questions and disappointment. He loves us and there is no doubt that Justin and I are immensely blessed because of Him. I lose sight of that sometimes though and that’s where Justin is just a rock star. He brings me back and reminds me where to keep my heart. A wonderful man has been placed in my life and I love him so.
I can honestly say that a baby 7-week pup is more work than we were expecting. The phrase “you never really know until you’re doing it” comes to mind. The constant potty breaks during the night to make sure she isn’t wetting her kennel have been tough but Justin and I have been a great team through the potty training phase and so far, so good!
of the smartest! She’s already sitting, coming and staying (kinda) on command and it’s only been two weeks! She fetches pretty well too, but I can’t tell if she really knows what she’s doing yet. Her favorite toy is her squeaky duck, which is great since she will be a bird dog next winter.
also officially my six month mark as Mrs. Pressly. The past six months have been a whirlwind of changes; overwhelming and scary, but mostly exciting and delightful.
Justin and I have grown a lot since May 17, 2014, both as a couple and individually. We have learned to make sacrifices and compromises that benefit our family, we have learned (and are still learning) how to budget together and what a true marriage in Christ means. I have learned how to pick my battles, truly support and encourage Justin and what it really looks like to submit to my husband, in a positive way that still allows me to be my own self. He has learned how to be “the man of the house,” a spiritual leader and the most incredible husband.
play out. In our hearts we know that only God can make our future plans, but it’s always fun to dream together and plan babies, vacations and “when we’re old and gray” stories.
If any of you ol’ married ladies out there are looking for a devotional that is easy, conversational and relatable to your life, you really need to check this one out. Because I am not very experienced in the daily devotional thing, I love that this one charts it out for you with the daily verse, daily thought, daily challenge and questions to reflect on. I find myself even thinking about these questions throughout the day. Check it out and let me know what you think!
Naturally, we did a little bit of walking only to find a local bar.If you know my husband, that is not a surprise to you. We enjoyed sitting and looking at the change of scenery and just chatting about little things. We don’t do that often enough.
City. We found a local restaurant and tried to feel like Charlotteans by pulling on the Panthers! Justin also spoiled me with a trip to the movies to see Gone Girl. I loved the book, and I have to say- Ben Affleck rocked the role of Nick Dunne. You should definitely see it. This movie theater also served Dippin’ Dots- I’m not kidding! Needless to say, we were both in heaven.
Pressly Party of Three 